KUTA - BALI
With a long, broad beach on the Indian Ocean, Kuta was originally discovered by tourists as a surfing mecca. It has long been a stop on the classic backpacking route in Asia. Today Kuta still attracts large quantities of tourist especially Australians as Bali is on their back doorstep. Due to the continuous influx of tourists Kuta has developed rapidly and is not shy of a few large rather unsightly concreted infrastructures. It can at times be chaotic and overcrowded with congestion.
However, the 5km long arcing white sand stretch of Kuta is still arguably the best beach front on Bali. The beach is safe, partially clean, well-maintained, although the vendors remain annoying. The long stretch of sand, is full of sunbathers and holiday makers attracting and although most of the serious surfers have moved on to newer pastures, there are still tons of surfer dudes around. Kuta is far from the fishing village it once was: it is now a Pacific resort and its streets are clogged with traffic, particularly during the peak seasons of July and August. The northern beach resorts of Petitinget (within the greater Seminyak area) and Kerobokan are in many ways more laid back versions of Kuta, less crowded and more suitable for longer stays. Further north still, Canggu and Dalung offer even more tranquility.
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Kuta is now the party area of Bali and most clubs are lined up on Jl. Legian. Also it's the base for every backpacker who starts his/her tour around Bali as Kuta is the transportation hub for the whole island.
Kuta stretches along the beachfront and small lanes lead into the densely populated hotel zone. The infrastructure is totally insufficient for the amount of people holidaying in Kuta and the best option is a combination of walking (in small lanes) and taxi (longer ways e.g. Kuta Gallery) or motorbike.
In the ocean it is prohibited to swim near the special flags, that are put by beach staff near the places where the currents are very strong. Always swim between the red and yellow flags, where the lifeguards have deemed it safest and will be the most patrolled area. |
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'Surfing' Kuta is a well known destination among surfing enthusiasts. A long sandy beach with a lack of dangerous rocks or coral makes the area an attraction for beginners. More advanced surfers can choose from over 30 other surfing breaks within 30 minutes drive from Kuta as listed in the Indo Surf and Lingo guidebook.
It is also possible to rent the equipment from locals on the beach for anywhere. If you rent from the same guys for a few consecutive days you will almost certainly get a better price. These guys can also give you some basic lessons and look after your stuff while you are in the water, but if it's your first experience of surfing it's safer to use a surf school for your first few days (fully insured) before heading out on your own.
There are SPA's by the dozen and as Kuta is the most competitive place in Bali, prices are the lowest. Ensure to shop around and ask for package discounts. Take a look at the place first and don't let yourself be talked into something by touts.
Enjoy the sunset. In the evenings plenty of people head down to the beach or seaside cafes to watch the wonderful sunset. |
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